Blank-Firing Starter Pistol from China

A replica revolver designed exclusively for firing blank cartridges, commonly used to start athletic events like track races. It falls under HTS 9305.10.40.00 as a part or accessory specifically for revolvers or pistols engineered only for blank ammunition, excluding live rounds. These pistols mimic the appearance and action of real firearms but are non-lethal.

Duty Rate — China → United States

21.7%

Rate breakdown

9903.03.0110%Except for products described in headings 9903.03.02–9903.03.11, articles the product of any country, as provided for in subdivision (aa) of U.S. note 2 to this subchapter
9903.88.157.5%Except as provided in headings 9903.88.39, 9903.88.42, 9903.88.44, 9903.88.47, 9903.88.49, 9903.88.51, 9903.88.53, 9903.88.55, 9903.88.57, 9903.88.65, 9903.88.66, 9903.88.67, 9903.88.68, or 9903.88.69, articles the product of China, as provided for in U.S. note 20(r) to this subchapter and as provided for in the subheadings enumerated in U.S. note 20(s)

Import Tips

Verify the pistol is certified for blank cartridges only with manufacturer documentation to avoid misclassification as a live-firearm part

Include proof of non-lethal design in import filings to comply with ATF import rules

Watch for country-of-origin restrictions on replica firearms